Easy Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad
User Reviews
5
Easy Pesto Tortellini Pasta Salad
Description
This pasta salad uses fresh cheese tortellini cooked briefly to tender but firm before cooling. Tossed with pesto, it gets a vibrant herbal flavor that coats each piece. Supplementing with halved cherry tomatoes adds juiciness and sweetness, while marinated mozzarella balls contribute a rich, creamy texture. The diced red onion introduces a mild sharpness and crunch to contrast the softer ingredients.
The salad can be served immediately after assembling for a fresh bite or chilled for hours to allow flavors to meld. The ingredients offer a balanced mix of textures and tastes, making it a flexible accompaniment for grilled meats or a standalone light dish.
It stores well refrigerated for up to three days, making it suitable for meal prep or potlucks. The recipe emphasizes careful cooking not to overcook tortellini to maintain texture, with simple tossing steps keeping preparation straightforward.
Ingredients
- 1 ounce cheese tortellini bag
- 1 cup pesto
- 1 and 1/2 cups cherry tomato sliced in half
- 1 ounce container mozzarella drained, marinated, balls
- 1/4 cup red onion diced
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add tortellini and cook for 1 and 1/2 minutes. Do not over cook!
- Drain and rinse under cold water until cool.
- Place tortellini in a large serving bowl. Add in pesto, tomatoes, cheese, and onion. Toss well to coat.
- Serve at once, or cover and place in the fridge for up to 3 days.